Feedback for Science Fair Project Idea

[KRussell]

My 8th grade daughter wants to use our aquarium in some way for her science fair project. We were thinking it would be interesting to test the effects of various types of fertilizer runoff on the environment. Since we live on the coast and our storm system dumps directly into the ocean it is a relevant topic for her. There was also a recent article in our local newspaper regarding the negative effects of run off in the watershed. We thought we would try a liquid like Miracle Grow, a solid fertilizer, and steer manure. We will put three small bowls in my refiguium and add a measured length of calupera and 5 or 6 cope pods. We would then add a small amount of each fertilizer and monitor the effects. We would also plant some grass in three different containers and add the same fertilizers. The test will be to see if there is any difference in the effects on a marine environment vs. how well the fertilizer helps the grass grow.

Does this seem like a good idea that is likely to produce any results? Also, how should we add the fertilizer and how to we insure the same concentration is added of each type? Will any of the standard reef test kits be useful for this experiment?

Any feedback is appreciated.

Kevin

[bertoni]

I wouldn't add a commercial product to a reef tank. It might contain a lot of problematic chemicals. I might set up a small tank just for the experiment. You could try overfeeding the system, and watch the result, if you don't mind the possible damage to the system.

[capn_hylinur]

Suggestion only--study the effect of phophates(detergents) on invertebrates--snails eg

Set up four plastic jugs each with 4-5 small snails (I just picked up turbos for .99 a piece at Big Al's)
Add the same amount of salt water from your existing tank-so all variables -pH, alk, salinity are the same to start with.
Make up a very weak solution of detergent and measure it with a phophate kit.
I would place an air tube in each from a common air pump. Shine a light on the four containers for about 3-4 days to grow some algae for food.
Jug 1---nothing is done to it--it is the control (trust me a good term for grade 8's to be aware of)
Jug 2--each day gets 5 ml of the phosphate solution
Jug 3--10 mLm "" "" ""
Jug 4--15 mL "" "" ""

Measure the temp, alk, phospate, pH, salinity each day for each jug--these can give you quantitative data
Count the number of snails living each day, if they are moving etc--this can give you qualitative data

all this can be charted and graphed etc.

should make a good and very visible experiment.

[bertoni]

I wouldn't expect much effect on the snails from phosphate. Detergents would kill them fairly quickly, though, I think.

[drawman]

I would set up containers outside of your tank and possibly set them in another larger container filled with water and a heater. Taking water from your tank would be a good idea. Don't forget to have a control for this.

[capn_hylinur]

Originally posted by bertoni
I wouldn't expect much effect on the snails from phosphate. Detergents would kill them fairly quickly, though, I think.

that's the idea Bertoni I was using detergents as the source of phosphates. The phosphates in the fourth situation should raise temp, which will increase co2 levels which will lowver pH.

that is why I suggested the measurement of these.

Is that not a basic concept of pollution from factories and cities dumping into the oceans around reefs.

Remember this is a grade 8 project----if they can demonstrate, use of controls, identify and control variables, quantitative measuring and observing, plus charting and graphing it meets the needs of what is expected in our Ontario curriculum at this point in the students scientific development.

oh and this one doesn't cost dad alot of money and time

[bertoni]

Not all detergent products will have phosphate in them, but they all should be fairly lethal.